2007 BMW 3 Series

Interior

We think the coupe and retractable hardtop convertible border on beautiful. Their long wheelbase, short overhangs, long hood and set-back cabin come together in classic power proportions. The coupe's low, sleek roofline slopes seamlessly into the rear deck, while the convertible's somewhat blunter rear roof enables it to disappear completely under a hard tonneau without using all the trunk.


Their fronts are dominated by BMW signature twin-kidney grilles, full-width lower air intakes with fog lamps at their outboard corners and xenon adaptive headlamps accented by corona light rings that double as daytime running lamps. Their sides are distinguished by flared wheel openings and three character creases between the beltline and lower sills. Their rears flaunt large dual exhausts and flush taillamps wrapping from the fender corners into the deck.


3 Series' cabins artfully blend luxury and sporty elements befitting a modern BMW. Standard leatherette upholstery (black or beige) covers the seats, and generous portions of dark burl walnut wood accent the instrument panel, front and rear consoles, doors and rear side panels. Soft "Dakota" leather (black, gray, coral red or saddle brown) is optional, while a choice of two no-cost optional trims, light poplar wood or brushed aluminum, can be ordered to replace the walnut.

Powertrains

The 3 Series is happily devoid (so far) of BMW's oft-aggravating iDrive multi-system controller that has proliferated throughout the larger, more expensive models—except when the optional iDrive-operated navigation system is ordered. Indirect "ambience lighting" in the doors and headliner creates a warm glow at night, and belt feeder arms in the coupe and convertible deliver both front occupants' shoulder belts when their respective doors are closed. The rear seat area is legroom-challenged for adults but roomier than previous models.


The 3 Series chassis is new and improved throughout. The double-pivot front suspension combines two lower arms with a lightweight, mostly aluminum spring/shock absorber strut, while the five-link rear layout is a double-A-Arm design with a lateral track rod. Working with precise rack-and-pinion steering, (run flat) performance tires and the significantly stiffer new structure, they deliver the road-hugging handling and responsiveness BMW buyers expect without being overly stiff. BMW's optional Active Steering adjusts steering ratio, angle and power assistance to vehicle speed for lower effort at low speeds and added stability at higher speeds and on slippery surfaces.